The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup is just around the corner. Teams are rallying to compete in the prestigious event as USWNT has landed in New Zealand in a bid to lift their third title in a row. Despite winning the World Cup in 2015 and 2019, their determination to win it for the third time remains strong. As the players are on a high, the soccer fraternity believes it would not be a straightforward task. Former USMNT player Alexi Lalas pointed out how one team could dampen their hopes.
Out of all the teams in the world, the USWNT remains the benchmark for most teams to follow in the last decade. They won World Cups and Olympic gold medals, establishing their dominance in the women’s division. However, in the recent past, one team from Europe rose through the ranks and dominated the last two years.
USMNT legend believes England would dampen three-peat hopes of USWNT
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In a recent interview, Alexi Lalas commented on his favorite team to win the tournament. He explained, “I would probably have to say, England. Only because of the attention. Obviously European Champions. Everything points towards this is the moment except for the fact that they have had injuries. And it’s not the same team that we saw a year ago in the Euros or won that European Championship.” In fact, the team from Europe won the UEFA Women’s Championship in 2022 and claimed the Women’s Finalissima in 2023.
CHAMPIONS 🦁🦁🦁
ENGLAND DEFEATS GERMANY 2-1 TO WIN THE WOMEN’S EURO 2022! 🏴🏆 pic.twitter.com/ejrj0vZvJD
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 31, 2022
High on confidence, the team plays a unique brand of soccer and steamrolled their opponents in the past two years. But never take your eyes off the USWNT. Despite claiming a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, they have the firepower to brush past their opponents.
Alex Morgan still plays at a high level, and Megan Rapinoe is a promising character in the squad. With their experience, the team can move forward by helping younger players. The team also boasts players like Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Naomi Girma, who will all play a crucial role in bringing the cup home.
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Will England fail at the last hurdle?
As Lalas pointed out England’s chances to win, the motivation to win more trophies might not be there after their successful period. He continued, “But I do think they feel, that this is their time. I think from an England perspective, whether they say it or not, what England fears is that their time has passed. And they had that little moment.” And in a way, they have vital players missing out on the tournament.
Captain and center-back Leah Williamson is out of the tournament after an ACL injury. Fran Kirby and Beth Mead won’t be able to participate in the tournament due to serious injuries. In light of these unfortunate developments, it seems the USWNT does have a chance at reclaiming their throne and completing the three-peat. Do you think they will do it?
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